Air-Fryer Hash Browns: Southern-Style

Hash browns are a breakfast staple, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get them crispy. This guide will take you through the steps to make delicious southern-style hash browns using an air fryer.

Choosing the right potatoes

The type of potato you use for your hash browns will depend on the texture you want to achieve. If you want your hash browns to be crispy, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. These potatoes have a higher starch content, which will give you that desired crispy texture when cooked. However, they may be prone to falling apart due to their starchiness. If you want your hash browns to stick together easily, go for a waxy potato like new potatoes, Yukon Golds, or red potatoes. These potatoes have a higher moisture content, which will help them hold their shape and stick together in the pan. However, they may not crisp up as nicely as starchy potatoes.

When it comes to peeling your potatoes, it's optional if you're using Yukons as they have a thinner skin. But if you're using Russets, it's best to peel them as their skin is thicker.

To ensure your hash browns are crispy, it's essential to remove as much moisture from the potatoes as possible before cooking. You can do this by grating the potatoes, rinsing them in cold water until the water is clear, and then drying them thoroughly with paper towels or a tea towel. Alternatively, you can use a potato ricer, orange or lemon press, or even a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.

Once your potatoes are dry, you can add your desired seasonings and follow the cooking instructions in your air fryer for that perfect crispy texture.

Preparing the potatoes

First, select the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their drier, fluffier texture compared to other varieties such as Yukon gold or red potatoes. This texture helps make the hash browns crispier. Peel the potatoes before moving on to the next step.

Next, grate the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor. A box grater will give you more control over the size of the shreds, but a food processor is faster and less labour-intensive.

Once you have grated the potatoes, place them in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Allow the potatoes to soak for at least 10 minutes, but preferably for about 30 minutes. Soaking helps to remove excess starch, which will ensure that your hash browns are crispy and not sticky.

After soaking, drain and rinse the potatoes thoroughly. Transfer the shredded potatoes to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. It is important to get them as dry as you can. Once they are mostly dry, return the potatoes to a large bowl.

Now it's time to season the potatoes. You can use a variety of seasonings, but a simple blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper is classic and versatile. Drizzle the potatoes with your chosen oil—options include vegetable, olive, avocado, or refined coconut oil—and toss to coat.

Your potatoes are now ready for the air fryer! Transfer them into the air fryer basket, pressing down lightly to form an even, single layer. For the crispiest hash browns, spray the top of the potatoes with a little cooking spray. Set your air fryer to 360-400°F and cook for 14-20 minutes, or until the hash browns are golden brown and crispy.

Adding seasoning

Seasoning your hash browns is a key step in adding flavour to your dish. While the main ingredient in hash browns is shredded potatoes, you can adjust the seasoning to your preference.

For a simple seasoning, you can use salt and pepper to taste. You can also add seasoning blends like seasoned salt, onion powder, or garlic powder. For a blend of seasonings, you can use garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. If you're using kosher salt, increase the measurement to about 3/4-1 teaspoon.

If you're making southern-style hash browns, you can add garlic powder and paprika to the potatoes before placing them in the air fryer. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika, rosemary, or other herbs and spices to elevate the flavour of your hash browns.

For a more savoury flavour, you can add some shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or bacon bits to your hash browns after cooking.

Air-frying the potatoes

To air-fry the potatoes, start by peeling and grating your chosen potatoes. A box grater or food processor will do the trick. For the best results, use russet potatoes, as their drier, fluffier texture will give you a crispier finish. However, Yukon gold or red potatoes will also work.

Next, soak the shredded potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least 10 minutes, but ideally 30 minutes. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which will ensure your hash browns are crispy and not sticky. Drain and rinse the potatoes, then transfer them to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to remove as much moisture as possible. Give them a good pat down and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Now it's time to season your potatoes. You can use a simple blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. However, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like paprika, rosemary, or smoked paprika to take your hash browns to the next level. Don't forget to add a couple of tablespoons of oil to the mix. Vegetable, olive, avocado, or refined coconut oil will all work well.

Once your potatoes are seasoned, it's time to transfer them to the air fryer basket. Lightly press them down into a single, even layer. For that extra crispness, give the top of the hash browns a light spray with cooking spray.

Now, you're ready to air fry! Set your air fryer to 360°F to 400°F, and cook for 14 to 20 minutes, or until your hash browns are golden brown and crispy. If you're using an air fryer lid, your hash browns might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.

And that's it! You can now enjoy your delicious, crispy southern hash browns. They're best served hot, but if you have any leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the air fryer for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer experience.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer hash browns are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Breakfast Side: Hash browns are a classic breakfast side dish. Serve them with eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, and fresh fruit for a hearty morning meal. You can also pair them with sweet cream pancakes, air fryer eggs, or turkey bacon.
• Brunch: Air fryer hash browns are perfect for brunch. Serve them with eggs, such as over-easy or sunny-side up, and a bagel breakfast casserole. You can also offer them with an egg souffle roll, mango overnight oats, or banana oatmeal muffins.
• Dinner Side: These hash browns also make a great side dish for dinner. Pair them with meatloaf, bean chili, lentil sloppy joes, or sandwiches like jackfruit pulled pork. They can also be served with a cozy soup or as a replacement for french fries.
• Appetizer or Snack: Hash brown patties can be crumbled and made into a casserole, or served in a sandwich. Add different sauces like ketchup, syrup, or hot sauce for a tasty dip. Top with fresh fruit, grilled onions, peppers, bacon, or cheese.
• Main Course: Make the hash brown potatoes the star of the show and serve them with a dipping sauce or loaded with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, bacon bits, guacamole, and more!

No matter how you serve them, air fryer hash browns are a delicious and crispy treat that your family and friends will love!

Frequently asked questions